Should You Go On a Buddymoon?

In no less than two real weddings in the last few weeks, the couples have mentioned that they headed off on a buddymoon after their weddings. Which means, it's officially a trend! So as we've covered micro trends in the past - like bridesmaids in white, pampas grass, and doughnut walls (all now mainstream FYI!), we figured that before buddymoons become the next big thing in honeymoons, we should do a quick guide into what they are, whether you should have one, and how to go about planning it.

What Is a Buddymoon?

A buddymoon is a honeymoon you take with your friends. It's essentially a group holiday you take after your wedding.

It's popular among couples getting married with a destination wedding, who want to make the most of being overseas with all their friends, or among couples who are hosting friends from around the world in their home country for their wedding, and want to show them the sites after they've made the journey to be there.

It's particularly common among Irish or British couples who come back from Australia or New Zealand to tie the knot, and bring a bunch of pals with them!

There's also a school of thought that, because so many couples live together and travel a lot before their weddings, their honeymoon isn't viewed as the same opportunity to 'get to know one another as newlyweds' as it used to be. It can now instead be seen as a last big hurrah with your pals before you settle down or maybe have kids.

Is a Buddymoon for You?

Well, it depends! Do you love the idea of an extended wedding celebration with all your pals? Or are you so excited about heading off with your new spouse for some total relaxation or a fun adventure for two?

If you do decide on a buddymoon, you need to make sure you AND your other half are both on board about the idea. Choose a small selection of mutual likeminded pals, or a few friends from each side, so it's not like your new husband or wife is tagging along on your friends trip.

Likewise, you don't want your friends to feel like they're third wheels on your honeymoon. So while you're going to be loved-up of course, if you plan on spending your days honeymoon in bed 'til lunchtime and having early nights, it's probably wise to head off into the sunset, just the two of you!

It's also important to note, couples are often way more tired than they'd expected after their weddings. While a week at a festival with your friends might sound like a great idea now, try to imagine how you'll feel after the busy build-up to your wedding, and a full-on few days of hosting duties.

Places to Go on a Buddymoon

Obviously where to go and what to do on your buddymoon will depend on the time of year, and the group of friends in question.

Generally buddymoons aren't long haul trips, so keeping it local or just a short flight away is a good idea

Road trips lend themselves well to buddymoons - plus if you have a few cars, you'll get solo time with your other half between stops

Festivals are another popular choice - lots of couples will get in a festival with friends then head off on a more traditional honeymoon

Renting a house in the country or a villa by the sea are perhaps the most common buddymoon ideas, that way you can make the most of hanging out together, take a casual opt-in approach to excursions and meals, and make it as budget-friendly for everyone as possible.